Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy
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Cambridge City Council
Hackney Carriage and
Private Hire Licensing
Policy
July 2021
1|PageDate Adopted: 28 July 2021
Author: Wangari Njiiri
Version: 13
Date Last Updated: 28 July 2021
By: Wangari Njiiri
2|PageHACKNEY CARRIAGE AND PRIVATE HIRE LICENSING
POLICY
Table of Contents
Section Description
Part 1 INTRODUCTION
1 Summary
2 Aims and Objectives
3 Powers and Duties
4 Best Practice Guidance
5 Status
6 The Licensing Regime
7 Implementation
8 Principles, Process, Delegation and Decisions
9 Fees
10 Licensing Profile
PART 2 VEHICLES
11 Limitation of Vehicle Numbers
12 Definitions, Specifications and Conditions
13 Fares
14 Meters
15 Accessibility and Equality
16 Vehicle Testing
17 Vehicle Inspections
18 Signage, Livery and Advertising
19 Exemptions
20 Stretched Limousines and Prestige Vehicles
21 Contract Vehicles
22 Wedding Vehicles
23 Funeral Vehicles
24 Safeguarding
25 Driver Safety
26 Hackney Carriage Stands
27 Vehicle Application Procedures
28 Grant of Vehicle Licences
29 Environmental Considerations
30 Smoking
PART 3 DRIVERS
31 General
32 Fit and Proper
33 Driver Licences
34 Eligibility to Live and Work in the UK
35 Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
36 Certificates of Good Conduct
37 Driving Licence Records
38 Medical Examination
39 Knowledge
40 Driving Proficiency
3|PageSection Description
41 Driver Application Procedures
42 Conditions of Driver Licences
43 Code of Good Conduct
PART 4 OPERATORS
44 Private Hire Operators Requirements and Obligations
45 Insurance
46 Private Hire Operator Licence Duration
47 Record Keeping
48 Address from which an Operator may Operate
49 Sub-Contracting
50 Cross Border Hiring
PART 5 ENFORCEMENT
51 Enforcement
52 Compliance
53 Range of Powers
54 Complaints, Compliments and Comments
55 Warnings
56 Prosecution
57 Suspension of a Licence
58 Refusal to Grant
59 Revocation of a Licence
60 Refusal to Renew
61 Rights of Appeal
62 Information and Data sharing
4|PagePART 1
INTRODUCTION
5|Page1.0 SUMMARY
1.1 This document sets out Cambridge City Council’s Hackney Carriage and Private Hire
Licensing Policy on the licensing of Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Drivers and
Vehicles together with all Private Hire Operators. This document also sets out the
legislative framework administered by the Licensing Authority in respect of such
licences, however this Policy is not a comprehensive statement of the law.
1.2 This Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle Licensing Policy must reflect the
clear vision of the Council to lead a united city, ‘One Cambridge – Fair For All’, in
which economic dynamism and prosperity are combined with social justice and
equality. It is a vision that the Council will share and develop, working with its
citizens and partner organisations.
1.3 Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles play a vital and integral part in an
integrated public transport system and the importance of a thriving hackney carriage
and private hire trade to the growth and prosperity of Cambridge’s local economy is
recognized; however, the safety and welfare of the public is the over-riding principle
that will be considered when matters are dealt with under the Policy.
1.4 This Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing policy is intended to put the
Council’s licensing requirements into context for all parties in a clear and transparent
manner.
2.0 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
2.1 In setting out this policy, the Licensing Authority seeks to carry out its licensing
functions with a view to promoting the following objectives:
i) The safety and protection of the public;
ii) Vehicle safety, comfort and access;
iii) The prevention of crime and disorder;
iv) The promotion of environmental sustainability
v) Protection of children and adults at risk from harm
2.2 The aim of the Policy is primarily to protect the public as well as to ensure that the
public have reasonable access to services. The Licensing Authority shall seek to
6|Pageuse its licensing powers to ensure that licensed vehicles in the district are safe,
comfortable, properly insured and available where and when required.
2.3 As a guide, in the promotion of the above objectives, the Licensing Authority will
consider the following matters:
Safety and protection of the public:
▪ Consideration of history of convictions and cautions
▪ Driver conduct and performance
▪ Knowledge of Cambridge City
▪ Health and fitness to fulfil the role of a licensed driver
▪ Vehicle specifications
Vehicle safety, comfort and access:
▪ Standards of vehicle comfort and appearance
▪ Location and use of ranks
▪ Accessibility of facilities
▪ Number of vehicles available
▪ Livery
The prevention of crime and disorder:
▪ Commitment to work with the Police and other relevant agencies
▪ Planned and unplanned enforcement programme to ensure compliance
▪ Operating rules, conditions, byelaws and fit and proper processes
▪ Support with local businesses for the dispersal of customers from
licensed premises
The promotion of environmental sustainability:
▪ To encourage the uptake of zero and ultra-low emission vehicles
▪ To only permit licenses for vehicles that comply with the particular age
requirements set out in this policy
▪ To work with stakeholders and the trade to support the Air Quality
Action Plan
7|PageThe protection of children and adults at risk from harm:
▪ Safeguarding requirements as set down in this policy
▪ Co -operation with other agencies to protect children and adults at risk
▪ Training to cover awareness of Safeguarding
▪ A robust reporting mechanism for Safeguarding issues
▪ Determination of fit and proper persons
2.4 The Policy recognises that the licensing function is only one means of securing the
delivery of the above objectives. The Licensing Authority will therefore continue to
work in partnership with the trade, its neighbouring authorities, the Police, other
enforcement agencies, local businesses and local people towards the promotion of
the licensing objectives.
2.5 Each application or enforcement measure shall be considered on its own merits,
using the policy as a main guideline. Where, and if, it is necessary for the Licensing
Authority to depart substantially from its policy, clear and compelling reasons shall be
given for doing so.
2.6 This Policy refers to guidance that is available to applicants, drivers and operators to
assist them with processes. This guidance is known as the Hackney Carriage and
Private Hire Licensing Handbook.
3.0 POWERS AND DUTIES
3.1 This statement of licensing policy has been produced pursuant to the powers
conferred by the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 and the Local Government
(Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, (as amended) which place duties on the
Council to carry out its licensing function.
3.2 This document sets out the policy that the Licensing Authority will apply when making
decisions about new applications and licences currently in force.
3.3 In undertaking its licensing function, the Licensing Authority will also have regard to
other relevant legislation including:
ii) Transport Act 1985 and other associated Road Traffic Acts
8|Pageiii) Road Vehicles (Constructions and Use) Regulations 1986.
iv) Crime and Disorder Act 1998
v) Environmental Protection Act
1990Equality Act 2010
vi) Health Act 2006 and Smoke-free Regulations 2006/7
vii) Legislative and Regulatory Reform Act 2006
viii) Road Safety Act 2006
ix) Human Rights Act 1998
4.0 BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE
4.1 The Department for Transport (DfT) has national responsibility for hackney carriage
and private hire legislation in England and Wales. In formulating this policy, advice
contained in the “Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Licensing: Best Practice Guidance
2010” has been taken into account in order to develop this policy.
There is recognition within the Guidance that licensing requirements which are
unduly stringent and demonstrate a too restrictive approach may be detrimental to
the public interest and could have adverse safety implications.
4.2 Local circumstances and requirements have been taken into account in this policy
and the DfT itself recognizes that individual Councils are best placed to “decide for
themselves the extent to which they wish to make use of it or adapt it to suit their
own purposes”
5.0 STATUS
5.1 In exercising its discretion in carrying out its regulatory functions, the Authority shall
have regard to this policy document and the objectives set out above.
5.2 Notwithstanding t h e e xi st e n ce o f t h i s p olicy , e a ch a p p l i ca t i o n o r
e n f o r ce me n t measure shall be considered on its own merits. Where it is
necessary for the Authority to depart substantially from its policy, clear and
compelling reasons shall be given for doing so.
5.3 Nothing in this policy will prevent an applicant or licence holder from requesting that
the Licensing Authority considers the individual merits of their case and give
9|Pagereasonable consideration to departing from its policy. Such request may be made
to, or before, the Licensing Sub-Committee or Council Officers as deemed
appropriate in the circumstances of the case.
5.4 This policy will provide the Licensing Authority and Council Officers who are required
to administer the licensing function with appropriate guidelines within which to act.
5.5 Where applications do not meet the requirements of the policy the Environmental
Health Manager has the delegated authority to refuse to grant a licence, refuse to
renew a licence or to revoke or suspend an existing licence.
5.6 The policy shall be kept under review and revised as appropriate and, in any event,
not less than five years from the date of its last adoption.
5.7 The policy does not override the legal requirements embodied in any legislation in
force at the time of adoption or as may be enacted after the adoption of this policy.
6.0 THE LICENSING REGIME
6.1 Some activities are considered to be of such risk to the safety of members of the
public that the law requires an approval to be in place, in the form of a licence, to
regulate that activity. This is the case with the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire
trade who make themselves available for hire to transport members of the public to
their chosen destination in return for reward.
6.2 The legislation creates three types of licence:
i) Vehicles (Hackney Carriage & Private Hire)
ii) Drivers (Hackney Carriage, Private Hire & Dual Licences)
iii) Operators (Private Hire only)
6.3 A journey not carried out in accordance with the correct licences is not only illegal; it
is likely to invalidate the insurance held by the driver, vehicle proprietor and operator
and could have serious consequences should an accident occur.
10 | P a g e7.0 IMPLEMENTATION
7.1 This policy shall take effect from 9th July 2018 and will override and
supersede all existing Council policy and guidance in relation to Hackney Carriage
and Private Hire Licensing. The Authority expects all licence holders to comply with
its terms immediately, but it is acknowledged that certain provisions may place
financial obligations on existing licence holders and accordingly the Authority is
prepared to permit a transitional period, during which time necessary changes must
be made.
7.2 The policy will remain effective for a maximum period of 5 years but the Authority
will keep the policy under review and will consult where appropriate on proposed
revisions, to reflect changes in case law and legislation. The Licensing
Committee may make any amendments to the policy.
7.3 References are made in this policy to the “Hackney Carriage & Private Hire
Handbook”. This is an operational guide that outlines the processes associated with
the administration and enforcement of the Licences and is subject to
amendment by the Environmental Health Manager.
8.0 PRINCIPLES, PROCESS, DELEGATION AND DECISIONS
8.1 The Licensing Authority aims to provide a clear, consistent and responsive service to
prospective and current licence holders, members of the public and other
stakeholders, including the provision of advice and guidance. The Licensing
Authority will be mindful of the needs of the applicant and licence holder but this will
be balanced against the over-riding duty that the Licensing Authority has to protect
the safety and welfare of the public.
The Council has delegated its Licensing function to the Council’s Licensing Committee and
further delegated authority to the Licensing Sub-Committee and to Officers of the Council
who will determine applications and licensing decisions in accordance with this Policy.Whilst
officers and the relevant committees/ panel will, in the majority of cases, follow the Policy,
there may be specific circumstances that require a departure from the Policy. In such
circumstances, the reasons for departing from the Policy will be made clear.8.4 The
Licensing Sub-Committee is made up of a selection of Members from the Licensing
Committee. Three Members will sit on hearings to deal with new applications, renewals and
reviews of licences that are referred directly by officers. Members, when determining
applications for a licence, renewals or reviews of a licence, will have regard to Hackney
Carriage and Private Hire legislation, this Policy and any other relevant legislation, legal case
law and other relevant Council policies.The Licensing Authority has the power to refuse to
11 | P a g egrant or renew licences and also to suspend or revoke existing licences in accordance with
relevant legislative provisions. Any decision by the licensing authority to refuse to grant or
revoke a licence to an individual thought to present a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult
will be referred to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
8.2
8.3 Any decision to refuse to grant, refuse to renew or suspend an application or any
decision relating to this Policy will be determined by Officers through the scheme of
delegation. The applicant will have a right of appeal to the Magistrates Court.
8.4 All decisions regarding breaches of the Enforcement Management System will be
determined by the Licensing Sub-Committee with a right of appeal to the Magistrates
Court.
8.5 Following the determination of an application by the Licensing Authority, the
applicant will receive a copy of the decision in writing. The written decision will be
delivered as soon as is practicable after the decision has been made. This will
include information on the right of appeal where appropriate.
8.6 Parties aggrieved by a decision of the Licensing Authority have a right of appeal.
This must be lodged with the relevant Court in accordance with the relevant statutory
provisions.
9.0 FEES
9.1 There is a statutory power for the Licensing Authority to charge fees associated with
the Hackney and Private Hire licensing regime. The fees charged to applicants
should be sufficient to cover the costs of inspecting the vehicles, providing Hackney
Carriage stands and administering the regulation of and enforcement work in
relation to the Hackney Carriages and Private Hire trades.
9.2 The appropriate fee should accompany any application or renewal made.
9.3 Licences surrendered prior to their expiry, or licenses that are suspended or
revoked shall not be eligible for a refund.
10.0 LICENSING PROFILE
10.1 A Hackney Carriage is a public transport vehicle with no more than 8 passenger
seats, which is licensed to ply for hire. This means that it may stand at ranks or be
hailed in the street by members of the public.
12 | P a g e10.2 Private Hire Vehicles must have no more than 8 passenger seats and must be
booked in advance by customers through an operator and may not ply for hire in
the street.
10.3 Vehicles that are required by an applicant to carry more than 8 passengers for hire
and reward fall outside the legislation governing Hackney Carriages and Private Hire
vehicles and require a public service vehicle licence. The Licensing Authority has no
involvement in the licensing of these vehicles.
13 | P a g ePART 2
VEHICLES
14 | P a g e11.0 LIMITATION OF VEHICLE NUMBERS
11.1 The current legal provision on quantity restrictions for Hackney Carriages is set out
in section 16 of the Transport Act 1985. This provides that the grant of a Hackney
Carriage Licence may be refused, for the purpose of licensed Hackney Carriages
“if, but only if, the local authority is satisfied that there is no significant demand for
the services of Hackney Carriages (within the area to which the licence would
apply) which is unmet”.
11.2 In 2014 the L i c e n s i n g Authority undertook a demand survey which concluded
that there was no significant demand for Hackney Carriages that was unmet.
Therefore, it applied a limit of Hackney Carriage Vehicles as of 26th January 2015
for a period of three years.
11.3 In 2017 a further demand survey was undertaken, the results of which concluded
that there continued to be no significant demand for Hackney Carriages that is
unmet. On 29th January 2018 Members resolved to keep a limit on Hackney
Carriage Vehicles for a further period of three years.
11.4 Any limit imposed by the Licensing Authority will be subject to the requirements
of Part 12 of the Equality Act 2010 and any associated Regulations such that the
proportion of the taxi fleet that is accessible to a disabled person complies with any
requirement that may be set by Regulations.
11.5 There are no powers for licensing authorities to limit the number of Private Hire
Vehicles.
12.0 DEFINITIONS, SPECIFICATIONS AND CONDITIONS
12.1 The main difference between Hackney Carriages and Private Hire vehicles is that
Hackney Carriages can be hailed in a public street or hired from a taxi rank.
12.2 Private Hire vehicles must be pre-booked in advance through a licensed Private Hire
Operator and are not permitted to wait on a rank or be booked directly from a public
street.
12.3 Should a Private Hire vehicle driver accept a fare which has not been pre-booked
15 | P a g ethrough an Operator, he is committing an offence and, if caught, will be subject to
relevant enforcement action by the Licensing Authority.
12.4 Anyone being conveyed in a Private Hire vehicle which has not been pre-booked
may not be covered by the drivers insurance. Proprietors are required to ensure that
they fully understand their individual insurance policy.
12.5 Once a vehicle is licensed as a Hackney Carriage or Private Hire vehicle, every
driver of that vehicle, whether it be used for business or pleasure, must possess the
appropriate City Council driver licence.
12.6 Local Licensing Authorities have a wide range of discretion over the types of
vehicle that they can licence as Hackney Carriage or Private Hire Vehicles.
12.7 Cambridge City Council will not grant a Hackney Carriage or Private Hire Vehicle
Licence for any vehicle that is already licensed by another authority. Obtaining a
vehicle licence from another authority will invalidate any vehicle licence granted by
Cambridge City Council.
12.8 Government guidance suggests that best practice is for local licensing authorities
to adopt the principle of specifying as many different types of vehicle as possible.
Licensing Authorities are encouraged to leave it open to the trade to put forward
vehicles of their own choice that can be shown to meet basic criteria. In that way,
emerging designs for vehicles can be taken into account.
12.9 Licensing Authorities are asked to be particularly cautious about specifying only
purpose-built Hackney Carriages, with the strict constraint on supply that implies.
There are at present only a small number of designs of purpose-built Hackney
Carriages. They are, however, encouraged to make use of the “type approval”
rules within any specifications they determine.
12.10 The Licensing Authority will only license a vehicle as a Hackney Carriage or a
Private Hire Vehicle if it complies with European Whole Vehicle (M1) type approval,
M1 Low Volume Type Approval or UK National Small Series Type Approval and
Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA). These approvals related to wheelchair accessible
vehicles/ converted vehicles and not saloon vehicles.
16 | P a g e12.11 A vehicle will only be licensed as a Private Hire vehicle if it is not of an appearance
or design that is considered likely to lead the public to think it is a licensed Hackney
Carriage vehicle.
12.12 The Licensing Authority is empowered to impose such conditions as it considers
reasonably necessary in relation to the grant of a Hackney Carriage or Private Hire
vehicle licence. Hackney Carriages and Private Hire vehicles provide a service
to the public, so it is appropriate to set criteria for the external and internal condition
of the vehicle, provided that these are not unreasonably onerous.
12.13 This will also apply to Private Hire vehicles unless they are treated as a “special
vehicle”.
12.14 The ‘Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook’ sets out the specification and
minimum standards in respect of Hackney Carriages and minimum standards for
Private Hire Vehicles. All vehicles presented to the Licensing Authority for licensing
and all vehicles whilst licensed must comply with the Authority’s current Hackney
Carriage and Private Hire policy, handbook and vehicle testing standards
specification.
12.15 The Licensing Authority reserves the right to carry out or require any form of test,
examination or assessment as it sees fit to determine the suitability of a vehicle for
licensing or to remain a licensed vehicle.
13.0 FARES
13.1 Hackney Carriage drivers may only charge their passengers such fare as is set by
the Licensing Authority and published by it in its table of fares. The charges levied
by Private Hire operators and drivers are not subject to the Authority’s control and
form a private contract between the hirer and the operator.
13.2 The Licensing Authority is able to review the Hackney Carriage Table of Fares (“the
tariff”) annually.
13.3 A table of authorised fares shall be provided to each Hackney Carriage Licence
holder, which must be displayed in each vehicle so that it is easily visible to all
17 | P a g ehirers.
13.4 The Licensing Authority is unable to set fares for Private Hire Vehicles.
13.5 All Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles must carry a device that is capable of
accepting payment for a journey from credit/debit cards.
14.0 METERS
14.1 The meter will be calendar controlled to the current tariff as set by the Licensing
Authority.
14.2 T h e taximeter and the operating devices must be sealed by the installer and
certificated to confirm that the equipment is compliant. The certificate issued must
be available for inspection on the vehicle Seals must be intact at any time that the
vehicle carries a Licence plate except when at an approved installers premises.
14.3 Meters are required to meet the Public Carriage Office Specification.
15.0 ACCESSIBILITY AND EQUALITY
15.1 Cambridge City Council has a specific Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Disability
Access Statement which can be found in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire
Handbook.
15.2 All new drivers must attend Accessibility & Equality Training as part of the
application process.
15.3 The Licensing Authority takes all complaints of discrimination seriously and will have
due regard to its duty to eliminate discrimination, along with the provisions of the
Equality Act 2010, when considering the fitness of an individual to hold a Hackney
Carriage or Private Hire licence (driver, vehicle or operator).
15.4 On 19th March 2018, Members agreed to reduce the percentage of Wheelchair
Accessible Vehicles to 50% across the whole fleet in order to encourage the uptake
of zero emission vehicles. All new Hackney Carriages ( p l a t e 1 2 1 t o 4 4 1 ) must
be wheelchair accessible vehicles.
18 | P a g eThe Authority will apply any specification for such vehicles as may be provided by
Regulations under the Equality Act 2010 and these will be detailed in the “Hackney
Carriage and Private Hire Handbook”. There is not the same requirement for
private hire vehicles to be wheelchair accessible.
15.5 All new licensed Hackney Carriages must be either side or rear loading. The
Licensing Authority will not licence wheelchair accessible vehicles that load from the
driver’s side (off-side).
15.6 Hackney Carriage licence plates numbered 1 to 121 retain p r o t e c t e d
“grandfather rights” to use saloon, petrol/ diesel powered style vehicles.
15.7 The Equality Act 2010 places certain duties on licensed drivers to provide assistance
to people in wheelchairs and to carry them safely. There are similar requirements
on drivers in relation to the treatment of passengers with an assistance dog. Neither
drivers nor operators of licensed vehicles can make any extra charge or refuse to
carry such passengers.
15.8 Licensed drivers who are unable to carry out the duties imposed upon them under
the Equality Act 2010 may apply to the Licensing Authority for an exemption
certificate from those duties. The Council must issue an exemption certificate to that
licensed driver if they are satisfied that it is appropriate to do so on medical grounds.
It is the driver’s responsibility to apply to the Council for such an exemption and to
satisfy the Licensing Authority at his or her own cost of the medical grounds. A
driver has no defence against these offences even if a medical ground or other
physical condition exists, if he has not been issued an exemption certificate.
15.9 It is arguable that different accessibility considerations should apply between
Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles in that Hackney Carriages can be hired
directly in the street or at a Hackney Carriage stand (“taxi rank”), by the customer
dealing directly with a licensed driver. However, Private Hire vehicles can only
be booked through a licensed Private Hire operator, normally by telephone
or by visiting the Private Hire operator office. It is therefore considered
particularly vital that an individual with accessibility requirements should be able to
hire a Hackney Carriage on the spot with the minimum delay or inconvenience,
and requiring that all new Hackney Carriages are accessible assists in achieving
19 | P a g ethat aim.
15.10 It is important that vehicle drivers, proprietors and operators ensure that
licensed drivers carry all passengers in safety and comfort, and that they do not
allow wheelchair passengers to travel sideways in their wheelchair. Therefore
15.11 Drivers should be appropriately trained in the use of relevant belts and other
restraint locking mechanisms to ensure the safety of their passengers. It is the
drivers responsibility to ensure that they understand fully how to use the equipment.
16.0 VEHICLE TESTING
16.1 The Licensing Authority must be satisfied that vehicles w h i c h a r e licensed by
them are safe to operate within its area.
16.2 The DfT guidance recognizes that an annual MOT test for licensed vehicles of
whatever age is necessary. No vehicle may be used as a Hackney Carriage or
Private Hire vehicle unless it has been given a certificate of compliance in respect of
a satisfactory test from the approved testing station, and has been appropriately
licensed by the Authority.
16.3 Vehicle testing is carried out twice yearly, the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire
Handbook sets out the specification and standards for vehicle testing and
compliance. In addition to this, the Authority will adhere to National Vehicle
Standards along with any localised byelaws or conditions as described in the
Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook.
16.4 The Licensing Authority may appoint a currently registered MOT station as an
Appointed Testing Station who will conduct vehicle tests on its behalf. The Authority
reserves the right to limit the number of approved garages.
16.5 Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles are granted licences for a maximum
period of one year. Prior to being granted a licence, each vehicle shall be
examined and tested at Cambridge City Council’s garage, at which compliance
with the requirements is assessed and confirmed by the issue of a certificate of
compliance.
20 | P a g e16.6 It is the proprietor’s responsibility to ensure that all testing and application
procedures are completed in order for the vehicle to become and/ or remain
licensed.
16.7 Licensed vehicles that fail an authorised examination and test, and are deemed
non-compliant by the examiner, will result in the vehicle proprietor being invited to
re-test the vehicle. If an existing licensed vehicle fails, it must not work until a
compliance test has been passed.
16.8 Proprietors of licensed vehicles are required to inform the Authority as soon as
possible, and most certainly within 72 hours, of any accident that causes damage
which materially affects the safety, performance or appearance of the vehicle
or the comfort or convenience of passengers carried. Proprietors must also
present the vehicle to the Licensing Authority, for inspection, if requested.
16.9 Full details on the accident reporting process can be found within the
Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook.
17.0 VEHICLE INSPECTIONS
17.1 Licensed vehicles shall be kept at all times in an efficient, safe, tidy and clean
condition. Compliance with the vehicle specifications and conditions of Licence is
essential and will be enforced by periodic and/ or random vehicle inspections by
authorised officers of the Council. Further guidance on vehicle inspections can be
found in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook.
18.0 SIGNAGE, LIVERY AND ADVERTISING
18.1 Some members of the public do not distinguish between Hackney Carriage and
Private Hire vehicles and do not realize that Private Hire vehicles are not available
for immediate hire or are able to be hailed in the street. It is therefore essential that
the public are able to easily identify between a Hackney Carriage and a Private
Hire vehicle.
18.2 Creating a distinctive livery for Hackney Carriage vehicles assists in resolving this
difficulty and on 16th October 2017 Members agreed to the addition of a livery
21 | P a g erequirement for all Hackney Carriage Vehicles.
On 9th July 2018 Members further agreed on the part of the Livery Specification for
Hackney Carriage Vehicles along with requirements for Private Hire Vehicles.
Further information on the Livery can be found within the Hackney Carriage and
Private Hire Vehicle Handbook, including the implementation plan.
18.3 Cambridge City Council licensed vehicles are required to display a City Council
issued identity licence plate. This is a key feature in helping to identify vehicles that
are correctly licensed by the authority.
Hackney Carriage Vehicles:
i) Must be silver in colour (as described on the V5 registration document for
each vehicle).
ii) Must have a ‘wrap’ of two gloss stripes, one placed either side of the vehicle
(running horizontally from the headlight to the rear light).
iii) Must have the stripe ‘grass green’ in colour and must be fitted along the side
of the vehicle and should follow the natural line of the vehicle.
iv) Must ensure that the stripe has a break on any part of it, on the front
passenger and driver doors, to allow for the positioning of the crests.
v) For Multi-Seater Vehicles, the stripe must be a thickness of 6 inches (150mm).
vi) For Saloon Vehicles, the stripe must be a thickness of 4 inches (100mm).
vii) Must display the Cambridge City Hackney Carriage pale blue identification
plate on the rear of the vehicle.
viii) Must have a ‘Taxi’ yellow roof sign on the top of the vehicle.
18.4 Roof signs fitted to Hackney Carriage vehicles shall be illuminated at all times
when the vehicle is available for hire. The sign bearing the word ”TAXI” in black
lettering on a yellow background on the front and “Cambridge Licensed Taxi Cab”
in black lettering on a red background on the back is at all times to be prominently
displayed on the roof of the vehicle except:
22 | P a g ei) when the vehicle is on hire for a wedding
ii) when it is necessary to accommodate passengers luggage by use of a roof
rack
iii) when the vehicle is being used for social, domestic or pleasure purposes.
18.5 The roof sign can also be removed when the vehicle is undergoing maintenance
work or is being cleaned, but must be put back on the vehicle before the vehicle is
used again for hire and reward.
18.6 In order to ensure that the crests remain prominent and are not compromised by
any other advertising the crests should be a minimum of 9.5 inches in diameter if
circular in size and 10 inches width and height if square with no background colour,
and attached to both the nearside and offside front doors of the vehicle.
18.7 The Hackney Carriage external licence plate supplied by the Licensing Authority
shall be securely fixed to the outside of the vehicle, no temporary fixing is allowed.
Private Hire Vehicles:
i) Cannot be silver in colour (as described on the V5 registration document for
each vehicle).
ii) Must display door signs which detail the name and contact information of the
Operator fulfilling the booking, along with the notification of ‘Private Hire: Pre-
booked only’.
iii) Must display the Cambridge City Private Hire pale green identification plates
on the front and rear of the vehicle.
iv) Do not have a taxi sign or crests.
18.8 Private Hire vehicles ar e not be permitted to display roof mounted signs or any
signs that include the words “taxi” or “cab” or “for hire”.
18.9 The Private Hire external licence plates supplied by the Licensing Authority shall be
securely fixed to the outside of the vehicle, no temporary fixing is allowed.
Advertising:
18.10 Private Hire Vehicles are not permitted to display advertisements.
23 | P a g e18.11 Limited external advertising may be permitted on Hackney Carriage Vehicles, but
only on the rear of the vehicle.
18.12 Limited internal advertising may be permitted in Hackney Carriage Vehicles.
18.13 Any permission to display advertising will be subject to the prior written approval of
the City Council and must be in accordance with the Advertising Standards Agency
code of practice. Advertisements concerning the following subjects will not normally
be approved:
i) Political, ethnic, religious, sexual or controversial subjects
ii) Escort agencies, gambling establishments or massage parlours
iii) Nude or semi-nude figures
iv) Tobacco or alcohol
iv) Anything likely to offend public taste
19.0 EXEMPTIONS
19.1 The DfT have issued guidance regarding the types of activities that may require
licensing. In general, the following will not be considered to require licensing:
i) Child minder vehicles
ii) Care transport workers
iii) Volunteers
iv) Ambulances
v) Courtesy Cars
Each case will be taken on its own merits and the nature of the operation will be
taken into account when considering if a licence is required.
19.2 The open display of the identifying licence plates is intended by the licensing
legislation in protecting the public and supporting the trade by identifying it as a
regulated business. However, there are occasions when the display of such
identification is inappropriate on a Private Hire Vehicle and exemptions may be
granted where there is sufficient reason.
24 | P a g e19.3 Detailed guidance on the Plate Exemption Procedure for Private Hire Vehicles can
be found in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook.
20.0 STRETCHED LIMOUSINES AND PRESTIGE VEHICLES
20.1 Stretched limousines are elongated saloon cars, which are generally used for
Private Hire work and special occasions.
20.2 Most limousines are imported for commercial purposes and are therefore required
to take a Single Vehicle Type Approval (SVA) [to be replaced by the Individual
Vehicle Approval (IVA)] test. The SVA or IVA Scheme is an Inspection Scheme for
vehicles that are not approved to British and European Standards and its purpose
is to ensure that these vehicles meet modern safety standards and environmental
standards before being used on public roads.
20.3 Any stretched limousines that are offered for private hire do require a licence.
Some operators of these vehicles have a wedding car licence insurance policy on
the basis that the vehicle will be used largely during daylight hours, once or twice
per week.
20.4 Applications to Licence stretched limousines as Private Hire vehicles will be treated
on their merits. However, imported stretched limousine type vehicles can:
i) be granted an exemption from the requirement under the conditions of
licence for Private Hire to be right hand drive;
ii) be authorized as prestige type vehicles; and
iii) be approved for licensing as Private Hire vehicles subject to the additional
conditions detailed in the ‘Taxi Guide’
20.5 Proprietors of prestige type vehicles licensed as Private Hire vehicles or
Private Hire vehicles used in special circumstances may seek the permission of the
Authority to waive the conditions of their licence relating to the display of
licence plates, door stickers and driver badges.
21.0 CONTRACT VEHICLES
20.1 The Road Safety Act 2006 requires vehicles used for a contract with an
organization or company, for carrying passengers for hire or reward under a
contract, to be licensed as private hire vehicles. As a general guide this shall
include executive hire, chauffeur services, park and ride for private car parks,
airport travel, stretch limousines and novelty vehicles.
25 | P a g e20.2 All vehicles with less than 8 passenger seats or fewer that carry passengers for
hire and reward must be licensed by the Local Authority. Although there has been
some legal debate regarding this particular issue, current case law supports the
view that vehicles which are used as 'courtesy cars', i.e. for transporting customers
to and from hotel, nightclubs, etc. are being provided for hire and reward in the
course of business, irrespective of whether or not a charge is made for such
service. They should, accordingly be licensed.
20.3 Those operating 'courtesy cars', e.g. for transporting customers to and from hotels,
nightclubs, etc. should have an operator's licence and the vehicles and driver
must be appropriately licensed.
20.4 All ambulances registered with the British Ambulance Association will be exempt
from private hire licensing.
20.5 Other patient transport services provided by either NHS or Voluntary Services that
are registered with the British Ambulance Association will be exempt from
private hire licensing.
20.6 All other ambulance or patient transport services that are not registered with the
British Ambulance Association may be required to conform to private hire licensing
requirements. The Licensing Authority strongly recommends that anyone wishing to
provide this type of service contact the Council for each case to be considered on
its merits.
20.7 In relation to Voluntary Sector Transport, the Licensing Authority will assess each
individual organisation on its own merits to determine whether or not it will require
licensing as a private hire business. Whilst it is clear that the organisation is
providing a service, it is less clear that such provision can be defined as
operating a private hire business.
20.8 When determining whether a vehicle is operating as a Private Hire Vehicle, the
Licensing Authority will have reference to the Department for Transport’s guidance
note “Private Hire Vehicle Licensing” and any relevant case law.
20.9 The Licensing Authority will, however, seek to enforce against unlicensed
26 | P a g ebusinesses where it can be proven that the business obtains a benefit and the
Authority considers that private hire vehicle licensing is necessary.
22.0 WEDDING VEHICLES
22.1 Vehicles used wholly or mainly for the traditional purposes of wedding ceremonies
are exempt from the requirement to be licensed.
23.0 FUNERAL VEHICLES
23.1 Vehicles owned by funeral directors that are used wholly or mainly for the
purposes of funerals are exempt from the requirement to be licensed.
24.0 SAFEGUARDING
24.1 Cambridge City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of
children, young people and adults at risk. We take our responsibilities seriously and
expect all of our licensed drivers, proprietors and operators to share this
commitment.
24.2 Safeguarding is the process of protecting children and adults at risk from harm,
preventing impairment to their health and development, which includes keeping them
safe from neglect, and physical, emotional and sexual abuse.
24.3 All new hackney carriage, private hire and dual driver, proprietor and operator
applicants must attend and pass the mandatory safeguarding training before
submitting an application. Further guidance can be found the Hackney Carriage and
Private Hire Handbook.
24.4 A mandatory refresher of the training will need to be undertaken by all licence
holders, and an examination successfully passed, every three years.
25.0 DRIVER SAFETY
25.1 The trade provides a valuable service and security for drivers and passengers is of
paramount importance. There are a number of ways to reduce risks such as
prepayment of fares, driver screens, CCTV surveillance systems and radio link
schemes.
25.2 The Hackney Carriage and Private Hire trades are encouraged to build good links
27 | P a g ewith the local police force, including participation in any crime and disorder
reduction partnerships.
25.3 On 16th October 2017 Members agreed to the mandatory requirement for the
installation of CCTV in Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles.
25.4 The implementation of CCTV in licensed vehicles serves multiple purposes which will
enable the prevention and detection of crime and promote a safe experience for both
licensed drivers and the travelling public.
25.5 The key objectives are:
- The protection of licensed drivers.
- The protection of the travelling public.
- To ensure that licensed drivers continue to be ‘fit and proper’ in line with
licence conditions.
- To enable investigations to be fully supported with evidence in a secure and
retrievable form.
25.6 The CCTV system installed in any vehicle will comply with the Council CCTV
Technical Specification and will remain locked and only accessible by an approved
officer of the Licensing Authority.
25.7 The Licensing Authority reserves the right to amend the CCTV specification from
time to time as the need arises, having regard to changes in technical standards,
case law, national policy or any other circumstances that make it reasonable to
amend the current specification.
25.8 Further guidance on CCTV, the associated operational procedures and the safety of
drivers can be found in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook.
26.0 HACKNEY CARRIAGE STANDS
26.1 The purpose of Hackney Carriage stands (known as Taxi Ranks) is to provide the
public with a set location where they can hire a licensed Hackney Carriage. Stands
can be continual or be for part time use (e.g. night time only ranks).
26.2 A list of all public taxi ranks in the city are detailed in the Hackney Carriage and
Private Hire Handbook.
28 | P a g e27.0 VEHICLE APPLICATION PROCEDURES
27.1 The application procedures for a Hackney Carriage or Private Hire vehicle licence
shall be made on the specified application form, be accompanied by the appropriate
fee and in accordance with the application procedure set out in the Hackney
Carriage and Private Hire Handbook.
27.2 The Licensing Authority shall consider all applications on their own merits once the
appropriate criteria have been met and the application form and supporting
documents are complete. Only then, and if the Licensing Authority is satisfied that
the vehicle is suitable, will a licence be granted.
27.3 The vehicle proprietor is responsible for ensuring that the application process is
followed and all necessary steps, documentation and fees are submitted in
accordance with the procedure.
28.0 GRANT OF VEHICLE LICENCES
28.1 The maximum period for which a vehicle licence will be granted is 1 year. The
Licensing Authority may exercise discretion and issue a licence of a shorter duration
if it considers this to be reasonable given the individual circumstance.
28.2 The responsibility for applying to renew a licence, and to ensure that a vehicle is
licensed, rests solely with the licence holder. Application forms, appropriate fees
and supporting documentation, as set out in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire
Handbook shall be produced and any necessary appointments shall be arranged on
a date prior to the expiry date of the licence. The licence fees payable are subject to
review and any increase or reduction will be published as required by legislation.
28.3 The Licensing Authority will only accept complete applications comprising of all the
necessary information and documentation. Renewals must be completed prior to
expiry of license. If license expires, the Local Authority will not be able to be renew
the vehicle as the license no longer exists. If proprietor wishes to license vehicle,
they will be required to begin new application, to gain new license. During this time
your vehicle will be unlicensed and will be unable to be used for licensed purposes.
In some cases, once a licence has lapsed, vehicles may not be eligible to be re-
licensed.
29 | P a g e29.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
29.1 The DfT guidance suggests that authorities may wish to consider how far the vehicle
licensing policy can and should support local environmental policies that the
Licensing Authority may have. They may also decide to set vehicle emissions
standards by promoting cleaner fuels. Local licensing authorities may also wish to
note that a review carried out by the National Society for Clean Air and
Environmental Protection in 2005 found taxis were more likely than other vehicles
to fail emissions tests.
29.2 Cambridge City Council considers that every effort should be made to improve
the efficiency of vehicles licensed to operate in the city by reducing the emissions of
pollutants such as Nitrous Oxides, Particulate Matter and Carbon Dioxide.
29.3 The European Union has introduced stricter limits on pollutant emissions from light
road vehicles, particularly for emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulates.
29.4 In order to limit pollution caused by road vehicles, this Regulation introduces
common requirements for emissions from motor vehicles and their specific
replacement parts (Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards).
Figure 1 – Chart showing the implementation dates of successive Euro Standards and
the Nox and PM levels for each of those standards
30 | P a g eEURO STANDARD DATE NOX (G/km) PM (G/ km)
Euro 1 July 1992 0.14
Euro 2 January 1996 0.08
Euro 3 January 2000 0.50 0.05
Euro 4 January 2005 0.25 0.02
Euro 5 September 2009 0.18 0.00
Euro 6 September 2014 0.08 0.00
Table 1 – Table showing the implementation dates of successive Euro Standards and the Nox
and PM levels for each of those standards.
29.5 Cambridge City declared an Air Quality Management Area in 2004 because of
predicted levels of nitrogen dioxide. An Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) is
an area identified by Local Authorities where the statutory UK air quality
objectives are being, or are expected to be breached up to the end of 2005,
AQMAs are areas where levels of air pollution are higher than they should be (as
defined by central government).
29.6 Levels of nitrogen dioxide in central Cambridge remain above the
National Objectives; an Air Quality Action Plan was first adopted in 2005 and a
more comprehensive version adopted in 2010. In 2015 the City Council set a policy
direction for pursuing a low emission strategy for Buses and Taxis within Cambridge
over a period of 10 years.
29.7 The 2015-25 Air Quality Action Plan includes a strategy to reduce polluting
emissions to improve poor air quality in Cambridge City and to develop taxi licensing
policies to transform the vehicle fleet into a low emission fleet which will lead to a
significant reduction in emissions and a significant improvement in air quality, whilst
maintaining sufficient levels of access and capacity for travel in the City.
29.8 The following potential incentives and regulatory policies, which are designed to
encourage and reward the uptake of Ultra- low emission and electric vehicles within
the taxi fleet, were consulted upon and agreed by Members on 19 th March 2018:
31 | P a g eItem Option Rationale Timeframe/ Implementation
1 Licence Fee Exemption Full Licence Fee Exemption is available for Zero With effect from 1 April
for Zero emission, Emission Vehicles ONLY. 2018
Vehicles The exemption could potentially be for up to 5
years.
This is dependent on funding availability.
2 Licence Fee Discount 50% Licence Fee discount is available for Ultra- With effect from 1 April
for Ultra-Low Emission Low emission vehicles. 2018
Vehicles The exemption could potentially be for up to 5
years.
This is dependent on funding availability.
3 Extended Age Limit for Zero Emission Vehicles can have an age limit of With effect from 1 April
Zero Emission Vehicles up to 15 years. 2018
This is subject to obtaining a Certificate of
Compliance every 6 months.
4 Extended Age Limit for Ultra-Low emission vehicles can have an age With effect from 1 April
Ultra-Low Vehicles limit of up to 12 years. 2018
This is subject to obtaining Certificate of
Compliance every 6 months.
5 A set date for all new This allows proprietors/ potential proprietors to With effect from 1 April
Licensed Saloon focus on planning to move to Zero or Ultra Low 2020
Vehicles to be Zero or emission vehicles by a set date.
Ultra-Low Emission
6 A set date for all This allows proprietors/ potential proprietors to By December 2028
Licensed Saloon focus on planning to move to Zero or Ultra Low
Vehicles to be Zero or emission vehicles by a set date and allows
Ultra-Low Emission adequate business planning.
7 To reduce the total % of The % of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV) With effect from 1 April
Wheelchair Accessible to be reduced to 50% within the fleet. 2018
Vehicles within the
32 | P a g eHackney Carriage Fleet
Proprietors will be offered the chance to ’give up’
to 50% their Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle on the
condition it is replaced with a Zero emission
saloon vehicle.
This will reduce the number of wheelchair
accessible taxis from 213 to 163.
8 A set date for all Further to option 7 (above), currently the market By December 2028. Subject
Wheelchair Accessible does not provide Ultra-Low or Zero Emission to review in 2026
Vehicles to be Ultra- Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles.
Low or Zero Emission
as and when the market
allows
9 To restrict City Centre This is an important factor in ensuring compliance By December 2028
Access to Ultra-Low with the Ultra-Low and Zero Emission criteria.
and Zero Emission The Greater Cambridge Partnership project
Licensed Vehicles only
considers traffic restrictions on key access
routes. This policy is outside the Licensing
powers and would only be deliverable with the co-
operation of the County Council. However,
considering changes that have come into effect
regarding access management of the City Centre
to Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)
there is the potential that this could be delivered.
29.9 Taxi and Private Hire Handbook, provides further information in regards to Ultra-low
and Zero emission vehicles.
29.10 To support the Councils Air Quality Action Plan minimum age limits and Euro
Standards will be maintained and new policy incentives to encourage the uptake of
zero and ultra-low emission vehicles will be implemented over a ten year period:
i) a new vehicle licence will not be granted in respect of a vehicle unless it is less
than 4 years old, and it meets the Euro 5 standard or higher.
ii) a vehicle licence will not be renewed unless the vehicle is less than 9 years old
and it meets Euro 4 standard or higher.
iii) from 1 April 2020 all new licenced saloon vehicles will need to be zero or ultra-
low emission vehicles.
33 | P a g eiv) by 31 December 2028 all licensed saloon vehicles will be zero or ultra-low
emission vehicles.
v) by 31 December 2028 all wheelchair accessible vehicles will be zero or ultra-
low emission as and when the market allows (this is subject to review in 2026).
vi) by 31 December 2028, the City Centre will restrict access to zero and ultra-low
emission licensed vehicles only.
29.11 To further support the uptake of Ultra- Low and Zero Emission vehicles, on 30
September 2019, Members agreed no maximum age limit for newly licensed Ultra-
Low and Zero Emssion vehicles.
29.12 With the 9-year age limit for petrol and diesel vehicles, this will mean that by
2017/18 all the internal combustion fleet licensed will be to Euro 5 or 6. The
extended age allowance for low emission vehicles reflects their low pollution and
supports improvements to air quality in Cambridge.
29.13 The term `new` means any vehicle that is being licensed for the first time with
Cambridge City Council (i.e. a complete new license) or where a license is issued
on a particular vehicle and then surrendered and subsequently an application to
license the same vehicle is made.
29.12 Encouraging better maintenance of vehicles could reduce emissions from licensed
vehicles further, it is intended that this aspect be tackled through education and
promotion.
29.13 The Authority recognizes that low emission vehicles can have a positive impact on
the environment and any application receives for other low and ultra-low emission
vehicles will be considered on its own merits.
29.14 Vehicle purchase subsidies are available for electric vehicles, dependent on the
emissions. OLEV have different levels of Plug In Car Grant for different vehicles as
detailed in the table below:
34 | P a g eCategory 1 Category 2 Category 3
CO2 emissions less than 50g/km CO2 emissions less than 50g/km CO2 emissions 50 – 75g/km and
and zero emission range of at and zero emission range of 10 – zero emission range of at least
least 70 miles 69 miles 20 miles
£4,500 £2,500 £2,500
Alternatively, there is a Plug In Taxi Grant (PiTG) available for purpose-built,
wheelchair accessible taxis of up to £7,500, as set out in the table below:
Category 1 Category 2
CO2 emissions less than CO2 emissions less than
50g/km and zero emission 50g/km and zero emission
range of at least 70 miles range of 10 – 69 miles
£7,500 £3,000
30.0 SMOKING
30.1 The driver of a licensed vehicle must not smoke in the vehicle at any time, including
when the vehicle is being used for social, domestic and pleasure purposes.
30.2 The driver of a licensed vehicle shall not permit any other person or fare-paying
passengers to smoke in a licensed vehicle.
30.3 This also includes a ban in electronic inhaler type cigarettes and ‘vaping’.
35 | P a g ePART 3
DRIVERS
36 | P a g e31.0 GENERAL
31.1 The statutory and practical criteria and qualifications for a Hackney Carriage Driver
are similar to those of a Private Hire Driver. The sections below therefore, apply
equally to Hackney Carriage, Private Hire and Dual Drivers unless indicated.
31.2 Licensed drivers provide a public service. The Licensing Authority will not licence
anyone to drive a Hackney Carriage or a Private Hire vehicle unless it is satisfied that
they are a fit and proper person.
32.0 FIT AND PROPER
32.1 There is no definition of ‘fit and proper’ in legislation nor a fixed legislative process.
It is for Cambridge City Council to determine how it wishes to be satisfied that a
driver is fit and proper and to this end, the Authority considers a range of
documentary evidence, practical criteria and testing mechanisms provided by an
applicant in order to be satisfied of this.
33.0 DRIVER LICENCES
33.1 The Licensing Authority grants three types of licence in respect of driving Hackney
Carriage and Private Hire vehicles (Hackney Carriage Driver Licence, Private Hire
Driver Licence and Dual Driver Licence). Applicants granted their first licence will be
limited to a maximum period of 12 months and thereafter there is the option of having
a licence issued for a minimum of 12 months or a maximum of 3 years.
33.2 The Licensing Authority may exercise discretion and issue a licence of a shorter
duration if it considers this to be reasonable given the individual circumstances.
33.3 The responsibility for applying to renew a licence, and to ensure that all
documentation, checks and associated criteria is up to date, rests solely with the
licence holder. Application forms, appropriate fees and supporting documentation,
as set out in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook shall be produced
and any necessary appointments shall be arranged on a date prior to the expiry date
of the licence. The licence fees payable are subject to review and any increase or
37 | P a g ereduction will be published as required by legislation.
33.4 The Licensing Authority will only accept complete applications comprising of all the
necessary information and documentation. Late or incomplete applications may
render a driver being unlicensed for a period of time during which they will be unable
to work as a licensed driver.
33.5 Applicants shall be over 18 years of age and shall have held a full driving licence
issued in the UK, the European Community (EC) or one of the other countries in
the European Economic Area (EEA) for at least 12 months.
33.6 The Authority shall use the services of an appropriate party to access DVLA records
in addition to checking the full licenses produced by the applicant.
34.0 ELIGIBILITY TO LIVE AND WORK IN THE UK
34.1 Cambridge City Council has a responsibility to ensure that it only issues licences to
individuals who have a legal entitlement to live and work in the United Kingdom.
34.2 Proof of the right to live and work in the UK must be provided by Driver and Operator
applicants in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.
As part of the new licence application process, individuals will be required to present
original documentation for verification and copies will be made and retained on file.
The Home Office has produced a list of documents that applicants can provide,
further information can be found in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Handbook.
34.3 If an individual is not a UK national then they will need to obtain permission to live
and work in the UK.
34.4 EU, EEA and Swiss nationals can not longer use their passport or national ID card as
proof of right to work in UK. Referenced nationals will be required to provide the
council with a ‘Share code’ in order for online check be completed.
34.5 Individuals may have a permanent or temporary right to live and work in the UK.
Licences will not be issued for a period any longer than the length of an individual’s
permission to live and work in the UK.
38 | P a g eYou can also read
